Torres del Paine W Trek 4-Day Tour (short version)
Self-guided tour with all services included to walk the W Trek in as few as 4 days
🗓️ Limited availability, we recommend booking in advance.
Briefing
The W Trek is the most popular hiking route in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. Howlanders presents the Torres del Paine W Trek 4-Day Tour (short version), a self-guided tour leading through the circuit to Grey Glacier’s first viewpoint in only four days.
Our tour includes all the necessary services to complete the trek: transfers from Puerto Natales, entrance to the park, full board accommodation, and a welcome kit. Lodging is at either a camping site (with a prepared camp) or in a shared room in a lodge (bunk beds). The first night you will stay in the Central or Chileno Sector and the following nights in the Francés or Cuernos Sector (according to availability).
This program is designed for adventurers who have less time to complete the W Trek in Chilean Patagonia. With the 4-day W Torres del Paine Tour, you won’t reach the Grey Sector or the Grey Glacier’s hanging bridges due to lack of time. If you want to enjoy the most comprehensive experience and reach the Grey Sector, book the 5-day Torres del Paine W Trek tour here.
Tour details
Included
- Park access ticket
- Transfer by bus from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine (round trip)
- Catamaran ticket (Paine Grande - Pudeto)
- 1 night of lodging in Central Sector
- 2 nights of lodging in Francés Sector or Cuernos
- Full board (3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners)
- Welcome Kit (towel + liner + refillable bottle + notebook + map)
Not included
- Breakfast day 1
- Dinner day 4
- Beverages
- Guide (available as an extra)
- Luggage porter (available as an extra)
Important information
Lodging options:
Camping: includes all necessary camping equipment: sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and assembled tent. Each tent has the capacity for two people. If you are single, you’ll be assigned your own tent.
"Refugio": these are shared rooms with four or six beds at a "mountain hostel" and include sheets, blankets, or sleeping bags, depending on the refugio.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellations!
- If you cancel at least 90 days before the start of the tour, you will receive a 100% refund of the amount paid.
- If you cancel between 89 and 60 days before the start of the tour, you will receive an 80% refund of the total cost.
- If you cancel between 59 and 45 days before the start of the tour, you will receive a 50% refund of the total cost.
After this time or in case of a no-show, no refund will be provided.
*The same policies apply to reservation modifications.
Tour itinerary
W Trek 4 Days
Welcome to the 4-Day W Trek
We know that a 4-day mountain route requires meticulous planning, that's why an introduction to the tour is done in person or online.
In addition, a few days before you arrive at Puerto Natales you’ll receive an email with instructions to pick up your welcome kit (it includes tickets, a map, a metal bottle...). The briefing is also an opportunity to ask questions and resolve any last-minute doubts.
DAY 1 Puerto Natales - Trekking Base Torres del Paine
Difficulty: Medium - High
Distance: 13.5 mi (22 km) (returning to Central Sector) / 10.5 mi (17 km) (ending in Chileno Sector)
Total approximate time: 9 hours
Positive difference in altitude: 3,517 ft (1.072m)
Lodging: Central or Chileno Sector
✨ Highlights: Base Torres Lookout Point
Access to Torres del Paine National Park
The first day of the 4-Day Torres del Paine tour starts early. The first leg of your trip to the park begins at the bus station in Puerto Natales, where your bus will depart at 7:00 am.
The bus will take you to the Laguna Amarga Welcome Center where you’ll register as a visitor and enter the park.
Torres del Paine Base Trekking
Once inside the park, a shuttle bus will take you to the Welcome Center and from there your Base Torres del Paine trekking begins.
The route of the first day will be the iconic ascent to the Base Torres viewpoint. The 13.6 mi (22 km) of the route is divided into three parts: initial slope, descent, and final ascent.
The trail will start flat for 1 mi (2 km) and then cross into the Ascencio River Valley, where your route becomes steep. Next is about 2 mi (3 km) of trail before reaching the Paso de los Vientos.
Lenga Forest - La Morrena - Base Torres Lookout Point
You will continue along a flat stretch of 2.5 mi (4 km) that passes through the Chileno Sector. This part of the route leads through an entirely different ecosystem, the Lenga Forest. The edge of the forest marks the beginning of the third section of the route: the final ascent. We recommend stopping here and filling up your water bottle before trekking the last stretch.
For almost 1 mi (2 km) you will find a windy path between big rocks. The slope may be difficult but every step is worth the burn when you reach: the viewpoint Base Torres del Paine.
Torres del Paine Base Viewpoint
From this viewpoint, you can enjoy the sweeping landscape featuring the Torres del Paine Lake and the famous granite towers that lend the national park its name.
Central or Chileno Sector
After taking a breather, start your way back along the same trail, until reaching the Central or Chileno Sector. This is where you can check in at the reception of the lodge and get your assigned time for dinner and breakfast the next day. Finally, you’ll have free time to rest, shower, have a drink at the bar, and eat dinner.
💬 Note that the Chilean Sector is located 3 mi (5 km) away from the Central Sector, so if you’re staying in the Chilean Sector your route on Day 1 will be shorter. Accommodations in the Chileno Sector are assigned when the Central Sector is full (only tents are available in the Central Sector)
DAY 2 Francés Sector Trekking
Difficulty: Medium
Distance: 8 mi (13.2 km) to Cuernos Sector / 10.5 mi (17 km) to Francés Sector
Total approximate time: 4:30 hours to Cuernos Sector / 6:30 hours to Francés Sector
Positive vertical drop: 1,115 ft (340 m) up to Cuernos Sector / 1,706 ft (520 m) up to Francés Sector
Lodging: Francés Sector or Cuernos Sector
✨ Highlights: Lake Nordenskjöld
Lake Nordenskjöld
After breakfast, the second day in Torres del Paine begins with the least demanding stage. In this section, there is very little elevation gain and the trail has been well-maintained. Today you’ll walk along the Nordenskjöld lake, cross a small river, and walk the stretches along the beaches next to the lake.
Almirante Nieto Mountain - Cuernos del Paine
During most of the route, the scenery consists of Cerro Almirante Nieto and the Cuernos del Paine. True Patagonian gems in all their splendor are a remarkable backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Francés Sector in Torres del Paine
Without a doubt, this is the best day to enjoy the scenery, therefore we recommend not rushing. Also, you’ll be walking between 4.5 and 6.5 hours (depending on the location of your accommodations). So take it easy and enjoy the views.
Both the French and Cuernos Sectors have the smallest and coziest lodges and campsites. Some travelers prefer to stay in the Francés Sector to take a few miles/kilometers off the next day's route, while others prefer to enjoy the Cuernos Sector, our favorite sector because of the lodge’s welcoming atmosphere.
💬Please note that if you stayed in the Chileno Sector the night before, your route will be 3 mi (5 km) longer.
The Torres del Paine 4-Day tour includes the second and third night of lodging in the Francés Sector or Cuernos Sector (depending on availability). Both are comfortable options, however, if you have a preference, please let us know when making your reservation and we’ll do our best to adapt your wishes.
DAY 3 French Valley Trekking
Difficulty: Medium-High
Distance: 11 mi (18 km) from Cuernos Sector / 9.32 mi (15 km) from Francés Sector
Total approximate time: 9 hours from Cuernos Sector / 8 hours from Francés Sector
Positive elevation gain: 3,215 ft (980 m) from Cuernos Sector / 2,624 ft (800 m) from Francés Sector
Lodging: Francés Sector or Cuernos
✨ Highlights: French Lookout + British Lookout
Italian Camp - French Lookout
The penultimate day of the 4-Day W Route is one of the most demanding days due to the cumulative elevation gain needed to reach the French and British viewpoints.
Starting from the Cuernos Sector, the first stretch before reaching the Francés Sector is a flat 2.5 mi (4 km). This continues for almost a mile (1.4 km) to an intersection where the trail splits in two. One ascends to the French and British lookout and the other continues to Paine Grande.
Today, take the road that goes up to the viewpoints and walk .5 mi (1km) to "Campamento Italiano". This camp is for the exclusive use of CONAF park rangers and offers a "nursery" service where many travelers leave their large backpacks to not have to carry them during the climb to the viewpoints, and only carry a small backpack with water, warm clothes and snacks.
The hike to the French lookout begins and includes a 1.5 mi (2.5 km) walk with 984 ft (300 m) of elevation gain.
Torres del Paine British Lookout
Once at the French viewpoint you can continue to the British viewpoint, 2.5 mi (4 km) long with 918 ft (280 m) of elevation gain. After reaching the viewpoint you’ll find a rocky area to climb where the best pictures of the British viewpoint can be had. Enjoy the best views in town as well.
Skottsberg Lake
To complete the route, return along the same path and pick up your backpack from the "nursery". Next, continue walking the remaining miles (km) to the Francés or Cuernos Sector downhill, something your legs will be grateful for.
If you’re staying in the Cuernos Sector on the third night of the tour, you’ll have to add another almost 2 mi (3 km) to your route.
DAY 4 Trekking to Paine Grande or Grey and return to Puerto Natales
Difficulty: Medium-High
Distance: 19.5 mi (31.5 km) from Francés Sector / 21.5 mi (34.5 km) from Cuernos Sector
Approximate time: 9 hours from Francés Sector / 10 hours from Cuernos Sector
Positive elevation gain: 885 ft (270 m) from Francés Sector / 1,476 ft (450 m) from Cuernos Sector
Lodging: not included (return to Puerto Natales)
✨ Highlights: First Grey Glacier Viewpoint
Mount Paine Grande
The last day of the 4-Day Torres del Paine tour is an 8.6 mi (14 km) route through the Paine Grande sector. Throughout the route, you’ll notice that some sections have wooden barriers to promote the regrowth of an area that suffered a fire. The trail also features a suspension bridge (an Indiana Jones-style bridge) that crosses a river and lends views of both the lake and the Cerro Paine Grande. A great spot for memorable photos.
The first viewpoint of Grey Glacier
Only a few well-trained travelers manage to reach the first viewpoint of the Grey Glacier on this day because the route is more than 18 mi (30 km) long. This viewpoint is so popular because it allows you to admire the magnitude of the glacier and see its ice floes drifting on Lake Grey.
Paine Grande 🚢 Pudeto 🚌 Puerto Natales
Once you’ve reached Paine Grande you’ll go to the pier to board the catamaran (boat) that will take you to Pudeto (the catamaran ticket is included in the price of the tour). In Pudeto you’ll catch the bus that will take you back to Puerto Natales, where you will arrive at 9:30 pm.
🚨Please ensure you accurately calculate your walking time because you’ll need to be at the pier at least 20 minutes before the boat departs.
What to bring to Torres del Paine W Trek 4-Day Tour (short version)
The weather in Patagonia is very changeable. It is said that you can experience all four seasons in one day. Also, during the summer (when the tour takes place), strong winds are very common. Therefore, we advise you to bring clothing for different climates, ideally the 3-layer system. We recommend that the weight of your backpack does not exceed 10% of your body weight and below is a guideline list, but you know better than anyone what your needs are in the mountains.
- Passport
- PDI: Migratory card (foreign travelers not residing in Chile)
- Accommodation reservation ticket
- Hiking pants: thin or short
- Long hiking pants for extra warmth
- First layer: thermal T-shirt
- Middle layer: fleece or similar
- Outer layer: waterproof jacket
- Warm jacket or fleece
- Hat
- Mountain footwear (preferably waterproof)
- Resting slippers
- Sandals (for showers)
- Personal hygiene products
- Flashlight and battery (useful in campgrounds)
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Walking sticks
- Cash (USD or CLP)
- Medium trekking backpack (approx. 40 liters)
- Small trekking backpack (15 liters) for use in the sections with return to the same sector.
- Long/short sleeve T-shirts
- Padlock (for lockers)
Where does the tour Torres del Paine W Trek 4-Day Tour (short version) start
The tour starts in Puerto Natales. If you are traveling from Santiago de Chile the best option is to fly directly to Puerto Natales or take a flight to Punta Arenas, and from there take a bus (3 hrs 15 mins) to the bus station in Puerto Natales or book a private transportation service with us.
If you are traveling from El Calafate (Argentina), direct buses that connect daily to Puerto Natales (5 hours) or you can book with us the transfer from El Calafate to Puerto Natales or the direct transfer between El Calafate and Torres del Paine.
Questions & Answers
My dates are not available, is there an alternative?
Yes, Howlanders will do everything possible to help you complete this tour by offering different dates or other itinerary modifications, etc... please don't hesitate to contact us.
Can I do the 4-Day W Circuit tour in the opposite direction?
Yes, it is possible to start in Paine Grande and the Grey Glacier area and finish in Base Torres, just contact us to request this modification.
What are the lodges like in the Torres del Paine National Park?
The lodges are very well equipped, with large communal areas perfect for resting after a long day of hiking. All lodges have a large dining room (also available to travelers staying at the campsite) and a bar where to meet, chat, and have a drink. Finally, the showers in the lodges are more convenient because they don’t have schedules in contrast to the campsite showers. We’ve created a post in our blog so you can get to know the various refuges in the park.
Do I have a private room in the lodges?
Some private options exist, for example, the cabins in the Cuernos Sector. But normally, all the rooms in the lodges are shared with about six people. They feature good beds, a reading light, and a plug next to the bed.
How are the campsites in Torres del Paine National Park?
There are two types of campsites depending on the sector. In some sectors, campsites feature tents mounted on wooden structures, while others are closer to "glamping", accompanied by a large tent raised off the ground (similar to safari-style tents installed atop land cruisers). All campsites have toilets and showers (with limited hours) and a common kitchen (which you won’t have to use because the tour includes all meals served in the dining room of the lodge). You can see the different types of campsites in the tour album, or check them out here: campsites in each sector.
Is lunch included and where do you eat at lunchtime?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast and dinner are served at the lodge (even for those staying at a campsite). A "lunchbox" is provided, it can be picked up after breakfast (to enjoy along the tour).
What food is included in the lunchbox?
The lunchbox consists of foods optimized for physical activity: nuts, cereal bars, fruit, a sandwich, and some sweets.
What documentation do I need to present to make a reservation as a Chilean traveler or foreigner residing in Chile?
The reservation can be processed normally. When asked, present a valid passport or identity document proving nationality or residence. If this documentation is not provided, you will have to pay the difference in price with the non-resident foreign traveler rate in Chile.
What documentation do I need to bring to access Torres del Paine National Park?
To access Torres del Paine National Park, you must present your valid passport, the park entrance ticket, and the documentation to reserve lodging in the different sectors. The lodging reservations will be given to you the day before at the Puerto Natales office. If you are a foreign traveler not residing in Chile, you must present the immigration card (given to you when entering Chile) at each lodging.
Do I have to carry all my luggage to Torres del Paine?
No, at Howlanders we recommend taking only what you need for the trek (four days) and leaving the rest of the luggage at your accommodations in Puerto Natales.
Do I have to carry my backpack for the entire tour?
During most of the route, you’ll be carrying your backpack, except in the three areas where you return by the same route: ascent to Torres Base, ascent to British/French Viewpoints, and ascent to the Grey Glacier.
Where do I leave my luggage?
You can leave your luggage either in your accommodations or in the "nurseries". Despite not being guarded, they are considered safe with no security problems or theft because travelers are respectful. However, we recommend taking your valuables with you.
Can I do the 4-Day W Circuit Tour with a guide or porter?
Yes, if you would like to walk the W circuit trails with a private professional mountain guide (exclusively for your group) or a porter to help you carry your backpack, just contact us.
Is the porter service only offered for 3 days?
Yes, because the first day is not necessary (you won't be moving to another sector on day 1).
What is a self-guided tour?
It is a route in which you do not have a guide and can walk at your own pace. This self-guided tour is very easy to follow because the paths are very well maintained and a map is provided explaining both the route and the surrounding area.
Where does the bus to Torres del Paine National Park leave from?
The bus leaves from Puerto Natales station, which is known as 'Terminal Rodoviario'. Puerto Natales is a small town and walking there takes less than 20 minutes. Cabs are also available.
Do I have to carry a lot of water?
No, just make sure you bring a reusable bottle (the one provided in the welcome kit, for example) Drinking water is available at the refuges and campsites and during the tour, you can refill your bottle directly from the rivers (it's drinkable and refreshing 😊).
Do I have to carry my camping equipment throughout the hike?
No, the tents are assembled at the campsites, and upon arrival, travelers will be assigned a tent. Each tent is equipped with a mat and sleeping bag.
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